May / June 2026
Relentlessly redefining what’s possible.
At Memorial Hermann, we never stop reaching higher for our patients and the health of our community. Each milestone challenges us to set the bar higher—to relentlessly improve care, innovate for the future and to see that the medicine of tomorrow surpasses the care of today. It is our promise to not only advance health but to personalize care, for you and for generations to come.
Advancing health. Personalizing care.
ON THE COVER
An Unforgettable Evening of Grit, Glamour, and Giving
On Friday, April 10, 2026, the House of Blues Houston was transformed into a high-energy celebration of style, generosity, and impact as supporters gathered for Grit & Glamour, benefiting the Chance for Hope Foundation.
From the moment doors opened,the venue was packed wall-to-wall with attendees ready to embrace the night’s western chic theme blending rugged spirit with refined elegance for an unforgettable evening.
and raffle. Each moment brought excitement and generosity to the forefront—but what made the evening truly extraordinary was the outcome.
Thanks to the overwhelming support in the room, Grit & Glamour smashed through Chance for Hope’s all-time annual gala fundraising record, marking a milestone achievement for the Foundation and significantly expanding its ability to serve families in need.
At its core, the Chance for Hope Foundation is dedicated to supporting children battling cancer and their families through both practical support services and critical research funding.
The atmosphere throughout the night was nothing short of electric. Guests filled the room with energy and enthusiasm creating a lively, festive environment that perfectly captured the spirit of a true “party with a purpose.” Conversations flowed, glasses clinked, and the sense of community was palpable as longtime supporters and new friends alike came together in support of an incredible mission.
A standout highlight was the evening’s entertainment, Rhinestone Rodeo, which proved to be an absolute home run. The band kept the dance floor packed from start to finish, delivering a nonstop set of fun, upbeat, and highly danceable hits that had the entire room moving. The energy never dipped, and the performance played a central role in making the night feel dynamic, engaging, and truly unforgettable. In addition to the incredible entertainment, guests enthusiastically participated in a full lineup of fundraising activities, including a live auction, big board,
The Foundation provides private, fully furnished residences free of charge for families traveling to Houston for treatment, offering a safe and comfortable home away from home during an incredibly challenging time. In addition, it delivers free meals directly to pediatric cancer patients and their families at local hospitals and stocks snack carts in outpatient clinics—ensuring that small but meaningful comforts are always within reach.
Chance for Hope also hosts its annual Enchanted Night program, a special evening of music, entertainment and joy that gives teen cancer patients the opportunity to step away from treatment, celebrate with peers, and simply enjoy being a teenager. Beyond these services, the Foundation is also committed to advancing pediatric cancer research, helping fund innovative treatments that bring hope for better outcomes and brighter futures.
The record-breaking success of the Chance for Hope Grit & Glamour event is a testament to the generosity, passion, and commitment of every sponsor, donor, volunteer, and attendee who helped bring the event to life. More than just a memorable night, it was a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together with purpose, heart, and a shared determination to make a difference.
Contact Information
Website: chanceforhopefoundation.org
Email: info@ chanceforhopefoundation.org
Facebook: chanceforhopefoundation
Instagram: chanceforhope
We proudly honor Kay Koehler as the Bay Area’s 2026 Woman of Impact. A devoted member of the Bay Area Circle of Red, a survivor of multiple cardiac events, and a true community leader, Kay mobilized her network to raise lifesaving funds and elevate awareness for heart health. Through her collective efforts, she inspired countless individuals to connect with the American Heart Association’s mission, helping advance healthier, longer lives. We are deeply grateful for Kay and all our nominees for their passion and leadership in advancing the Go Red for Women movement.
Woman of Impact
Kay Koehler
The Longhorn Project - Center for
THE BARITA LAW FIRM
You Run the Business—She Handles the Legal: Inside Trisha Barita’s Strategy for Smarter Growth
Business owners are often experts in their craft—but the legal side of running and scaling a company is an entirely different skill set. Trisha Barita, managing attorney of the Barita Law Firm, has built her practice helping entrepreneurs bridge that gap.
With 21 years of experience practicing Labor and Employment Law on the management side, along with Business Law for entrepreneurs, Ms. Barita serves as a trusted advisor to business owners navigating growth, risk, and compliance. With offices in downtown Houston and League City, Texas, her firm supports companies across a wide range of industries.
What distinguishes Ms. Barita’s approach is her commitment to long-term partnership. She works closely with clients not just as legal counsel but as a strategic resource—helping them proactively address legal matters so they can stay focused on what they do best: running their business.
Her services include consultation on business operations, policy development, employee handbook creation, and comprehensive audits of employment practices, from discipline through termination. She also represents employers in defending workplace claims with government agencies and develops litigation strategies when disputes arise.
Beyond her legal practice, Ms. Barita extends her impact through education. She is the host of the podcasts Legal Skinny and Less Stressed Leader, where she provides practical guidance for entrepreneurs and company leadership. Her episodes—available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify—cover real-world workplace scenarios, with popular topics including “Who Doesn’t Love a Prankster”, “Stay Interviews”, and “Birthday Surprise in the Workplace”.
Her work and insight have earned recognition in publications such as Texas Lawyer, Business. com, Business News Daily, and Authority Magazine, reinforcing her reputation as a trusted voice at the intersection of law and business.
Outside the office, Ms. Barita enjoys spending time with her family and participating in community events. She and her husband compete in gumbo contests, including Yaga’s Wild Texas Galveston Shrimp Festival, and she enjoys baking with her twin 10-year-old daughters, Elizabeth and Olivia.
Trisha Barita has built her practice on the belief that business owners shouldn’t have to navigate the legal complexities of running and scaling a business alone. Through the Barita Law Firm, she provides the clarity and strategy needed to help companies grow and scale with confidence—and operate the right way from the start.
To learn more about her firm and services, visit www.baritalaw.com, and for her podcast and legal education resources, visit www.legalskinny.com.
Trisha Barita
Kelly visits the hugely popular Chef Trinidad "Machete" Gonzalez - Owner of Gordo Ninos Restaurant Located inside the Motu Gas Station on NASA Road 1 in Houston, and a Contestant on Season 5 of "NEXT LEVEL CHEF" TV Show.
Artemis Launch Party
NASA HILTON
“ The City of Nassau Houston will benefit We have a beautiful millions of Space have a rich history with many previous employees calling to share our inviting and locals alike,” The City of Nassau development and forward since its inception in 2025. The City, Ayrshire Corporation and its president , Billy Burge, partnered to make this project a reality.
Board of Directors members, Scott Covington and Gary Garnett are very active in the boating community and Lakewood Yacht Club " The Clear Lake, Galveston Bay and Houston area is the 3rd largest boating community in North America and is looking for a destination like this to enhance everyone's fun on the water," says Scott Covington.
will be the signature Compass rose, highlighting Margaritaville's unique history and culture. The lobby level will showcase a new bright open airy lounge and island selection of local artwork Steps away will be the ever-inviting 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill , where time goes slower and food and drinks taste better Next to the hotel , a new standalone coastal building will be constructed featuring a high-end JWB Prime Steak & Seafood restaurant , with stunning views of Clear Lake for every momentous occasion, and the TieOne- On Bar & Grill , a casual dining restaurant catering to the sailor adventurer in us all A rooftop bar will give you a license to chill as you peruse the 15th floor open view of the entire Clear Lake Area and Johnson Space Center The property will also feature an updated Convention Center, as well as approximately 16,000 square feet of meeting and training spaces which will serve the community ’s myriad corporate, governmental , and educational conference needs.
“Situated on NASA Parkway with a prime waterfront location and the most beautiful views on Clear Lake, the upcoming Compass by Margaritaville Nassau Bay Hotel and Resort is such an exciting addition to our city. We believe that the property will not only reenergize an old glory hotel but also serve as an important economic engine for the City of Nassau Bay and the surrounding area as a whole,” according to Paul Lopez , Nassau Bay City Manager.
With renovations slated to begin in July 2026 and completed by the third quarter of 2027, the Bay Area of Houston doesn’t have much longer to wait to enjoy all that this new development has to offer On the road with work , part of a conference or group, or traveling for pleasure to explore a new spot , our guests will be attracted to a fun, nontraditional and experiential hotel that will help them escape the everyday and elevate their trip
“ We’re excited to bring the Margaritaville spirit to the area ,” said Kam Miramadi, CEO of Nassau Bay Resorts LLC, the company that owns the Compass Margaritaville Nassau Bay project . “ We’ve been fortunate to have great local investors in the project who have committed to bringing back a relaxed, tropical-style, food and entertainment resort to Clear Lake With their help, we look forward to making it 5 o’Clock Somewhere in Nassau Bay Forever!”
For more information about this project , please contact Kam Miramadi with Nassau Bay Resorts at kmiramadi@nassaubayresorts com.
MARINADE:
MAIN INGREDIENTS
1.2 lbs boneless chicken
1 cup coconut cream
tbsp brown sugar 4 garlic cloves… minced 2 tbsp fish sauce
2 tbsp lime juice … fresh squeezed
1 stalk lemongrass washed and smashed
1 inch of fresh ginger peeled and fine grated
Cilantro leaves for garnish chopped
Skewers …soaked wooden ,bamboo or metal
Mix coconut cream ,fish sauce , brown sugar,garlic,lime juice,ginger and lemongrass in a large pot . Whisk until sugar dissolves and mixture is creamy.
PREPARATION:
Cut chicken into large cubes …. Bite size
Add chicken to creamy coconut marinade let sit for 1 hour covered in the refrigerator.
Thread chicken onto skewers if bamboo or wooden pre soak for 30 minutes in water.
OIL GRILL GRATES:
Heat grill medium high heat, grill for 10-12 minutes,flipping every 3-4 minutes each side until charred to your liking. Internal temperature of 165 degrees
SERVE:
Let chicken rest a few minutes before serving. Serve over Jasmine rice or a mixed green salad. Garnish chicken with the chopped cilantro
Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers
Greater Than the Highs and Lows
By Pastor Brad Heintz
Have you ever had one of those weeks where everything felt up and down?
One day things are going great— you’re winning at work, family is good, and life just feels right. Then the next day something shifts. Stress hits. Plans change. And suddenly you’re wondering what happened.
That’s life, isn’t it? Highs and lows. Living here along the coast, we understand that better than most. We’ve watched storms form in the Gulf and head our way. We’ve boarded up windows, checked on neighbors, and waited it out together. And when the storm passes, what happens? Our community shows up. People help clear debris, share meals, lend tools, and make sure no one walks through it alone. In the middle of the lows, we rally. That's why this spring and summer at Living Word Church, we’re leaning into a truth that speaks right into that reality: God is greater than the highs and the lows.
Jesus talked about this in one of His most powerful teachings—the Sermon on the Mount. When He sat down on that hillside, He didn’t just give information—He gave an invitation. He said, “Blessed are the poor
in spirit… blessed are those who mourn…” (Matthew 5). That’s not how we usually define blessing. We tend to associate it with the highs— when everything is going our way. But Jesus shows us something deeper. Real blessing isn’t about what’s happening around us—it’s about what God is doing within us. So when life is high, God is greater. And when life is low, God is still greater.
He also reminds us, “Do not worry about tomorrow… your Heavenly Father knows what you need.” (Matthew 6:34). That’s a promise we can hold onto—whether we’re watching the weather or navigating everyday stress. At the end of His message, Jesus tells a story about two houses—one built on sand and one built on rock. When the storm comes, only one stands. The difference isn’t the storm.
The difference is the foundation.
So wherever you find yourself right now—on a high, in a low, or somewhere in between—know this: God is greater. And He’s inviting you to build your life on something that will last.
Pastor Brad Heintz is the founding pastor of Living Word Church in Taylor Lake Village, Texas, a vibrant family-style, non-denominational gathering of believers who take a pure, simple and real approach to faith and life. www.LWCBA.org
JimmySIMS AND BillMINAK
Proprietors of Art of Coffee / Kemah Flowers
1. Where are you both from originally?
Bill is from Michigan and Jimmy is from Crockett, Texas.
2. When did you start your Business Enterprise? Kemah Flowers was started in 2012 and Art of Coffee started in 2013
3. What is your business philosophy?
Treat everyone like your own family and make it for your loved one.
4. What’s your favorite book / novel ?
Bill - any book by John Grisham / Jimmy - "Tale of Two Cities"
5. Favorite food or cuisine?
Bill - Mexican / Jimmy - Italian
6. The most influential person in your life?
Bill - My Parents Jimmy - The love of my life, Bill
7. Favorite travel destination?
Bill - Definitely Las Vegas / Jimmy - Colorado & Vegas
8. What is your favorite movie?
Bill - "Scar Face" / Jimmy - "Evening Star"
9. If you could have coffee with anyone in the world who would that be?
Bill - Donald Trump / Jimmy - Dolly Parton
By Rob Hefner: Owner of Old Glory Rennovations
What do you do when you need a handyman? How long does it take to get work done? How about electrician or plumber or tree trimmer?
Talking to my customers and keeping an eye on social media, it seems like finding the right contractor for anything is something akin to dealing with a used car dealer from 1995. For me, it’s easy.
I have a full rolodex (if you are under 50, rolodex means contact list) of people I know and have worked with before. If only there was a way to share it, to make it easy to get anything at all you need on your home done without wasting time and worry.
That is what Old Glory has put together. A single phone number, just one contact for everything. We are doing it in three parts.
First, Old Glory Renovations will continue to provide remodeling and renovation services in Galveston County just as we’ve been doing for years.
Second, we have created Old Glory Handyman, separate from Renovations in order to allow quicker response but part of the same family of businesses to ensure all of the experience and
capability in Renovations is available if needed. Our goal is to start work within 24 hours of the first visit.
Third, we have created Old Glory Premier Home Management. It is not a home warranty program, rather a maintenance program for your home that reduces the need for a home warranty. Home Management offers all of the routine things like lawn care, landscaping, and AC maintenance along with some things not offered elsewhere – freeze preparation, storm shutter install and removal, and AC filter replacement.
Signing a contract also gives you access to a single contact for when you wake up to water on the floor or siding gets blown off the side of your home. This family of businesses, Old Glory Construction Group, comes from the same place that formed Old Glory in the first place. Created to help homeowners avoid getting the shaft from unethical builders and contractors, we are extending that same concept to include everything on your home, not just remodeling.
As always, we are grounded in three words: trust, confidence, integrity. How much time could we save you?
By Don Armstrong
EV’s have finally gained traction, especially among urbanite buyers. Despite the lack of a government incentive, sales at least have stabilized a bit. So, we checked out a couple that drew our attention.
CHEVROLET BLAZER EV SS
Our 2-row tester is medium sized despite its “small SUV” designation. Yes, Gramma and Aunt Mary can join you on the summer trip back to Wisconsin with ample legroom in the second row with room for luggage in back. The Blazer offers the latest infotainment connectivity with a huge screen melded into the instrument cluster - but no Apple Carplay or Android Auto. Come on, Chevy. Seating is comfortable with materials rugged enough to handle the soccer kids.
The exterior shape is modern and attractive and has the “ready for any adventure” look, especially in our orange paint.
Range is rated at 287 with a full charge, which is about average. 2 or 4-wheel drive is available depending on one of the 3 major trim levels. We used a 110-volt outlet, and it kept up with our 80-mile roundtrip commute. Entry price starts at $44,600, but a top-of-line SS begins at $62,095. That’s a huge swing for the same vehicle. Do your homework because there’s lots of competition in the midsize EV field.
SUBARU UNCHARTED
Like other gasoline vehicles in the market today, electrics have similar competitors, and the all-new Subaru Uncharted is no different. The EV’s however, offer an added quotient of oomph from the electric motors that sap range and, unlike gasoline, you must ask, “are fast charging stations along my route?”
The Uncharted is a sub-compact which may be the perfect fit for an around town vehicle since range is 308 miles at best. What will really impress is its 338-horsepower. The exterior design is sharp, one of the best looking you’ll see around the Bay Area. The interior is sweet too, except for the puny instrument cluster. It’s too small even for those with 20/20 vision.
But the 14-inch infotainment screen makes up for it. Who looks at the gauges anymore anyway? Materials are of the rough-and-tumble type. Rear seating lacks legroom, something you’ll find in most small SUVs since that’s the easiest place to save space in design.
We think the Subaru Uncharted certainly deserves a look when shopping for a subcompact SUV. Pricing starts at $34,995.
CHEVROLET BLAZER EV SS
PHOTOS BY: Ange Mertens and Robyn Weigelt
Meet the Platypi:
NASA’s Newest Astronaut Candidate Class
By Sumer Loggins
Ten explorers are currently training at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston to become flight-eligible astronauts. Selected in 2025, the astronaut candidates are building the technical and operational skills needed for future missions to the International Space Station, the Moon, and eventually Mars. Now, NASA’s newest astronaut candidates have a class name: the Platypi
The name was selected by the previous astronaut candidate class, known as the Flies. Members of that group came together to choose a name that reflected the range of skills and personalities they saw in the new candidates. NASA astronauts Anil Menon and Chris Birch helped facilitate the discussions.
“They’re like the Swiss Army knife of candidates,” Menon said. “They can use just about any tool to solve any problem or challenge they face. They’re unassuming and incredibly kind, but extremely capable.” Menon said the class reminded the Flies of one of Earth’s most remarkable animals. “Our main driver was that this class stood out as extremely capable, with a lot of different skills, while also being very friendly and supportive of each other,” he said. “They have many diverse and sometimes hidden talents, like the platypus.”
The platypus is a mammal that lays eggs and has unique traits such as electroreceptors in its bill and a venomous spur. Its features resemble several different animals, including the bill of a duck, the tail of a beaver, and the body of an otter. Despite its unusual appearance, the platypus is highly adapted to its environment. For NASA’s newest astronaut candidates, the name reflects a similar idea: a team with a wide range of strengths working together toward a common goal.
So far, the astronaut candidates have trained to operate and understand the Canadarm2 robotic arm used aboard the space station. They are learning how to capture visiting spacecraft, move equipment outside the station, and support spacewalk operations. The candidates also train in space station systems, orbital mechanics, and flight operations.
“It is really impressive to me to learn about all of the complexities of the various systems that keep the International Space Station operational, and how they’ve all been functioning with a continuous human presence aboard for the last 25 years,” said astronaut candidate Lauren Edgar. “It’s amazing to see how it all works together and how to fix things when needed.”
The 2025 Astronaut Candidate class in front of NASA’s Space Exploration Vehicle and Ground Test Unit rover at NASA’s Johnson Space Center Rock Yard in Houston. Credit: NASA/James Blair
A behind-the-scenes look at the day NASA announced its 2025 Astronaut Candidate class on Sept. 22, 2025. Credit: NASA/Robert Markowitz
NASA astronaut candidates Lauren Edger and Imelda Muller take a photo before participating in water survival training at NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory in Houston. Credit: NASA/Helen Arase Vargas
The candidates have completed survival training to prepare for the unlikely event of landing in remote environments after a mission. They also participated in land and water survival exercises designed to build teamwork and decision-making under pressure.
“The diversity of the training as well as the focus on psychological, physical, and expeditionary skills has been the most surprising to me,” said astronaut candidate Yuri Kubo. “I’ve learned a lot about myself, from areas of professional and interpersonal development to my ability to overcome challenges. It is amazing what we can achieve with dedication and hard work and an amazing team of people to support you.”
The candidates began conducting spacewalk training inside NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory, where astronauts rehearse spacewalks underwater in conditions that simulate microgravity. They also have flown in the agency’s T-38 supersonic jets and other aircraft at Ellington Field.
Future training will include operating spacecraft systems used in human spaceflight missions, and studying geology in classrooms and field settings for future missions to the Moon. The class will work shifts in the Mission Control Center in Houston to experience a day in the life of the people who keep watch over the astronauts and vehicles.
“Our training has already been diverse and dynamic,” said astronaut candidate Anna Menon. “There is a lot to learn, and I’m excited about every chapter!” The Platypi are focused on learning the fundamentals of human spaceflight, building the skills that will one day help them operate spacecraft, conduct science in orbit, and explore beyond Earth.
Like the animal they are named after, their strength lies in the many capabilities each member brings to the team.
The astronaut candidates join for in-class instruction during wilderness survival training. Credit: NASA/Helen Arase Vargas
The astronaut candidates participate in wilderness survival training at Fort Rucker in Alabama. Credit: NASA/Helen Arase Vargas
TEXAS MEDITATIONS
By Michael Gos
Most people know the basics of how Texas became a republic and all the goings on of 1836.
They pick that up in junior high history (or on their own if they are in the “got here as fast as I could” crowd). But few remember, or ever knew about, how 10 years later, right after Texas decided to join the United States, another war was fought with Mexico.
After the annexation, the US, under president James Polk, claimed Texas as far down as the Rio Grande. Mexico saw the border as the Nueces River and a new war was born that would last two years. Polk built Fort Brown near the Rio Grande just north of Matamoros (in today’s Brownsville) and the Mexican army wasted no time is setting up a six-day siege.
In the meantime, future president Zachary Taylor who was then a general, was in what is today Port Isabel getting supplies for the fort. Despite the distance, he was able to hear cannon fire from the siege and quickly headed his 2,300 troops back to Fort Brown. Twice along the way he was engaged by Mexican forces, culminating in a major battle at Resaca de las Palma.
Majorly out-gunned, the Mexican troops turned and headed back to the safety of Matamoros, ending the siege of Fort Brown. US troops then invaded Mexico and went all the way to Mexico City in September of 1847. There the war ended as Mexico accepted the Rio Grande as the border in exchange for 15 million dollars giving Texas the shape that today is known the world over.
Jill and I decided we needed to see the site of an event this important in our history. As we walked the battlefield, we saw the line of Mexican flags indicating their position in the battle and another line of American flags marking the American forces
The area is open prairie now although the name Palo Alto (big trees) suggests it might have been different back then. I was surprised that so many
people, myself included, knew little or nothing about that war today. I guess some things are just easy to forget. •
A few winters ago, I was walking down Main Street in Bandera, probably my favorite Hill Country town, when I noticed a small sign in the corner of a shop window. It read “We have Oplatki.” That struck me as a word that sounded vaguely familiar, but I couldn’t quite remember what it was. Being half Polish myself and realizing Bandera has a large Polish community, I figured it might possibly be a Polish word. Curiosity got the best of me and I went inside to inquire.
About twenty minutes later, after the usual friendly chat that is so common in small towns, I walked away with a memory. Oplatki are rectangular communion-type wafers, usually with an embossed nativity scene. They are a part of an elaborate Christmas dinner ceremony in Polish homes. I could go into detail, but that’s not important here. What matters is that this was a major part of my life growing up, but somehow I had lost the memory. However, once the clerk showed me her wares, I remembered everything— in detail.
Just a few months later, I was reading Michener’s Poland, a rare thing for me since I am always bothered by the fact that all his historic fiction starts with “The earth cooled.” But I had made it through Texas, so I figured I’d give this one a try. In it there was a reference to pisanki, the specially decorated Easter eggs using beeswax and natural dyes. Each family has its own unique design. I had completely forgotten that, every year as a kid, I would sit for hours and watch my uncles making little marks on eggs with melted beeswax and my aunt taking those eggs and dipping them into maroon or dark blue-dyed water. It was an all-day task. How could I have forgotten that?
According to Harvard’s Doctor Andrew Budson, as we age, say 30 and beyond, it often takes external cues, things like sounds or images, to trigger lost memories. Think about how old songs often bring back memories of people and events
The Forgotten Self
that happened when the song was popular. In my case, it took a sign in a store window and a reference in a book to remember things that used to be a major part of my life. And even before that, it took learning about the Battle of Palo Alto to trigger my memories about the shop in Bandera and the book.
Why is that? According to Budson, our sensual perceptions, like images, sounds or smells, are stored in the cortex of the brain. But the memory itself is stored in the hippocampus. As we age, unless we visit those memories regularly, the separation of the two parts becomes harder to bridge. One would think that these rituals that occurred every Christmas and Easter of my life until I started college would have been solidly locked in my memories. Yet clearly, since I hadn’t thought about them for years, that connection was not exercised and so was never made.
Thinking about the battle at Palo Alto triggered my thinking about the event in Bandera and the reference in the book—Budson’s “external cues” I guess. I wonder how many other things I’ve forgotten that used to be an important part of my life in the past—and how I could find the external cues necessary to rediscover them as well. Budson has a set of recommendations to do just that. In addition to seeing an object or a reference in a book, he lists other helpful cues such as cooking a food you had as a kid, looking at old photographs and visiting a place from your younger days.
When we lose memories of things and people that were a part of our lives long ago, we don’t just lose the memories—we lose a part of our nature, of who we are as individuals. College was the beginning of a new life for me, and I did everything I could to leave the old one behind. I’ve since discovered that there were many beautiful things back there that, when remembered, bring warmth and pleasure as well as a better understanding of who I am today. Both oplatki and the Easter eggs are once again a part of my family’s life. And we are much richer for it.
Palo Alto Battlefield, Texas
As the sun casts golden rays over the campus of NASA's Johnson Space Center, a quiet yet momentous anniversary is being celebrated.
LZ Technology, the unsung mission partner behind current NASA initiatives, marks 25 years of trailblazing achievements and stellar community service. From contributing to the illustrious, near-perfect Artemis mission—NASA's bold mission to return humanity to the Moon and beyond— to supporting Houston communities through vibrant educational projects, LZ Technology exemplifies a fusion of industry prowess and benevolent stewardship.
Founded a quarter-century ago, LZ Technology has cemented its position as "Quietly Essential," a vital cog in NASA's mission machinery, offering cuttingedge aerospace engineering and intricate technical solutions. The company's partnership with NASA on the Artemis mission, designed to extend human presence on the lunar surface and set the stage for Mars exploration, highlights its unwavering commitment to space exploration. This partnership not only signifies LZ Technology's technical acumen but also reflects its ability to adapt and lead in the evolving landscape of space exploration.
Yet, the company's visionary focus extends beyond the cosmos. Deeply rooted in its commitment to societal impact, LZ Technology supports The Longhorn Project at NASA, an innovative educational endeavor interweaving agriculture and STEM education. The project stands as a testament to LZ Technology's dedication to cultivating future-ready skills and preserving cultural legacy. LZT donates both time and effort to the Leo Advocacy Group and the Citizens for Space groups to enrich the space program. LZT is a sponsor and volunteer for the Clear Lake Boat Parade.
Emphasizing its community-centric philosophy, LZ actively supports a range of charitable, educational, and spiritual initiatives. LZ’s consistent holidayseason initiative, which provides funds to the Clear Lake Food Pantry to support 700 families, is one of many community efforts. LZ’s chairman is a special advisor to the board of directors of a local church and supports the Highland Heights Legacy Foundation, which provides funding to seniors and people with visual impairments, underscoring LZT’s role as a pillar of local generosity and welfare.
This dual focus—on propelling humanity toward new frontiers and nurturing the communities that form our backbone—defines LZ’s enduring legacy. As it celebrates this 25-year service milestone, leading with a beacon of how technological advancement and community obligation harmoniously coexist, forging pathways in space and in the lives of those it touches here on Earth. Contact 281-864-3488 for information to contribute to any named organizations.
Champ
2.5- year- old - Long timer at the shelter******* He has been here 730 days ********
Champ is a fun-loving dog with a personality as big as his ears—seriously, they could be goal posts for a football team! He loves chasing toys and, in true Champ fashion, will toss them in the air with pure joy. His playful nature shines when he’s with other dogs, always eager for fun. But he also has an affectionate side; and when you want to chill he’ll happily settle by your feet, content to chew on his favorite toy while staying close. Champ’s playful nature and loving heart make him a perfect friend to have by your side.
Come see us at Bay Area Pet
We are looking for our Forever Home!
2.5-year-old Chow Mix
This handsome part Chow-Chow is a true showstopper, and it’s his fluffy, curled tail that tells the whole story. With his rich red coat and proud strut, he turns heads wherever he goes. He loves a good game of fetch and thrives on attention, soaking up every compliment like he knows he deserves it. Sweet, charming, and impossible not to adore, this boy is ready to curl his way right into your heart.
Moto Moto
Hi, I’m MotoMmoto, a sweet soul in search of a forever home. My days are filled with gentle purrs and seeking cuddles from anyone who walks by. I love making friends and am always ready to greet you with a friendly meow. I’m quite the cuddler, always on the lookout for a warm lap to snuggle into. If you’re looking for a loving companion to share cozy moments with, I’m your guy. Adopting me means endless love and cuddles, and I promise to be the most loyal friend you could ever wish for.
Tux
Hello, I’m Tux. I’m a gentle soul, seeking a peaceful corner in someone’s heart and home. My days are brighter when I’m with my brother, Moto Moto; we share a special bond. I may take a little while to come out of my shell, but once I do, I’ll shower you with quiet affection. I dream of a serene environment where I can feel safe and loved. Adopting me means gaining a loyal friend who appreciates the simple joys of companionship. Let’s make beautiful memories together.
1 year old
Khalessi rules her realm like the true Queen of the North— wise, gentle, and endlessly charming. Great with other dogs, she forms alliances with ease. With people she is affectionate and shares hugs, kisses, and a wagging-tail decree of friendship. When playtime comes, she unleashes her inner dragon, tossing toys into the air with joyful flair, all while proving she’s as smart as she is sweet. Khalessi will make any house a home. Khalessi
RICK'S PICKS
Bay Area Service League ® Celebrates Ribbon Cutting
With Clear Lake Area and League City Chamber of Commerce
Bay Area Service League is proud to announce the grand ribbon cutting of its awardwinning resale shop, held in partnership with the Clear Lake Area and League City Chamber of Commerce. This exciting event marks a new chapter for the organization, which has recently transitioned to operate as a local entity. This change strengthens our focus on impactful, community-centered work and ensures all resources stay within the Bay Area to better serve residents.
Bay Area Service League is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (formerly known as Assistance League ® of the Bay Area) dedicated to transforming lives through philanthropic initiatives in the Houston-Galveston Bay Area community. This organization is an all-volunteer organization.
The resale shop, recognized for its excellence and service, is a cornerstone of our mission to support local initiatives. Revenue generated from the shop funds eight vital philanthropies, each dedicated to addressing diverse needs within our community. Among its signature programs is Ready for School, previously known as Operation School Bell ® , which supplies students from pre-kindergarten through high school across eight local school districts and the Mosbacher Odyssey public charter school with new, school-appropriate clothing, accessories, and hygiene kits.
Additionally, the Operation Support Our Schools initiative provides essential services, including vision referrals, dental care, nutritional supplies, and other critical items, to at-risk students across 26 campuses in the Clear Creek and Dickinson Independent School Districts.
Operation Cinderella provides seniors with appropriate attire for proms and military balls. At the same time, the Snack Attack Packs program delivers nutritious meals to students experiencing food insecurity in the Deer Park, La Porte, and Texas City Independent School Districts.
The Ready for Work initiative equips adults entering the job market with professional attire suitable for interviews and
employment. The Caring Kits program, formerly known as Assault Survivor Kits ®, distributes clothing and hygiene kits to local shelters, hospitals, and police departments to assist survivors of sexual assault or domestic violence.
Finally, the Literacy for Life initiative encourages a love for reading by providing books to the community.
By concentrating our efforts locally, we are deepening our commitment to making a positive difference where it matters most—right here at home.
We invite you to visit our award-winning Resale Shop, located at 100 E. Nasa Parkway, Suite #80 in Webster on any Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The shop is one of three funding sources for our philanthropic programs. Donations are welcome and are accepted on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at Suite #80B from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
We extend our sincere gratitude to both the Clear Lake Area and League City Chamber of Commerce for celebrating this milestone with us and to our volunteers, partners, and patrons whose dedication drives our success.
The Bay Area Service League invites everyone to visit our resale shop, learn more about our philanthropies, and join us in building a stronger, more vibrant community.
For more information about our organization, upcoming events, or ways to get involved, visit our website at www.bayareaserviceleague.org.
